Christchurch Tram, Christchurch - Canterbury

Public transport within cities

Find out about using public transport within New Zealand by clicking 'read more' on your chosen city.

Auckland

Auckland’s downtown area is compact and walkable, but its natural beauty lies outside the city centre.

The ATHop card is Auckland's prepay transport card; it will save you money on transport if you're planning to be in the city for a few days.

Buses connect all parts of the city and run frequently, especially on weekdays. Fares start from NZ$1 cash per segment (or NZ$0.50 with ATHop).

Trains service some central, southern and western suburbs. Fares start at NZ$2.50 per stage (NZ$1.80 with ATHop).

Ferries run between downtown Auckland, the North Shore and East Auckland, as well as Auckland’s islands. Fares cost from NZ$6.20 cash (NZ$4.50 with ATHop). Note that ATHop is not valid on all ferry services.

From Auckland Airport, the SkyBus costs NZ$16 into the city. Airport shuttles are also available, costing from NZ$35.

Cable car, Wellington

By Ian Trafford

Wellington

Wellington’s compact CBD makes it a great place to walk! But there are also plenty of public transport options. To pay your fare on Wellington's transport network, you can use cash or a range of prepay cards (depending on which bus company you'll be using). See how to pay your fare for more information.

Wellington’s bus network is comprehensive, linking all suburbs with the Central Business District. Fares start from NZ$2.00 cash for a single zone.

Trains connect downtown Wellington with the wider region, as far north as Masterton and Waikanae. Fares start from NZ$2.00 cash for a single zone.

Ferry services leave from downtown Queens Wharf and travel to Seatoun, Matiu/Somes Island and Days Bay, costing NZ$11 one way.

From Wellington Airport, the Airport Flyer bus travels to town and beyond, costing from NZ$4.20. Shuttles are available too.

Wellington’s Cable Car takes passengers from downtown up to the Wellington Botanic Gardens. It’s one of Wellington’s most popular attractions, offering stunning views of the city and costing just NZ$9 one way.

Paragliding from Bobs Peak, Queenstown

By Destination Queenstown

Queenstown

If you’re staying in Queenstown and are planning to do adventure activities or tours, your provider may offer a shuttle service. Check when you book.

The Orbus bus service connects central Queenstown with the airport and Queenstown’s surrounding towns, including Arrowtown with a flat rate $2 fare across the network for passengers who buy a GoCard onboard. Cash fares are $5, or $10 to/from Queenstown Airport.

Queenstown Water Taxis link the town with the Frankton arm of the lake, near the Hilton Hotel, and costs NZ$10 one way.